Geneva Show 2012 Highlights: Tata Megapixel Concept

The Tata Megapixel concept, a range-extended electric vehicle with CO2 emissions as low as 22g/km and the potential for 282mpg has been unveiled at today’s Geneva motor show.

Tata chiefs revealed last year that a production version of the Pixel would make it to Europe instead of the proposed European version of the Tata Nano.

The Megapixel “is the result of the progress we have made on the Pixel”, according to Tata India’s managing director, Prakash Telang.

While a conventional three-cylinder turbodiesel engine powered the Pixel, the Megapixel is driven by four electric motors, one mounted in each wheel. They are powered by a 13kWh lithium-ion phosphate battery pack that helps give the Megapixel an all-electric range of 54 miles. The batteries can be recharged using an induction charging system.

When electric power is depleted, a tiny 30bhp 325cc single cylinder petrol generator kicks in to extend the range up to “over 559 miles”. It can reach a maximum speed of 68mph.

One of the Pixel’s most impressive features was its turning circle of just 5.2 metres. Despite the Megapixel’s more complex drivetrain, the turning circle is a still-impressive 5.6 metres. A Hackney Carriage’s turning circle is 7.6 metres.

While the fundamental design of the Megapixel looks more production ready than before, some more elaborate concept car features are incorporated. The Megapixel – which also previews Tata’s future design language – features double sliding doors on each side to boost cabin access.

The absence of B-pillars results in a spacious, easily accessible four-seat cabin, which boasts even more space in the floor areas as the seats are cantilevered on the centre tunnel.

A smartphone can be mounted and full integrated into the front cabin, and a large touchscreen sits in the centre console to control the interior’s major functions.